World Bank opens office in Solomons

The World Bank is returning to Solomon Islands after having no direct involvement there for more than a decade.

The Solomons' Prime Minister, Dr Derek Sikua, will today open the Bank's country office at Mud Alley, beside the offices of the Central Bank.

The World Bank's Pacific director, Nigel Roberts, says having an office for the first time and putting a team on the ground demonstrates the Bank's long term commitment to the country.

Mr Roberts says this will be the beginning of a much deeper engagement with the Solomons.

The World Bank is currently supporting efforts to rejuvenate the cash strapped Solomon Islands Electricity Authority as well assisting with the planned construction of a hydro power dam on the Guadalcanal Plains.